Heart failure can cause a range of symptoms. The most common are:

• Shortness of breath – caused by fluid in the lungs; this is often worse during exercise and when lying down
• Tiredness – this is because there is not enough oxygen to meet the body’s needs
• Fluid retention (congestion, edema) – this is caused by blood accumulating in the tissues, and it often affects the legs and feet

Other symptoms of heart failure include:

• Persistent cough
• Wheezing
• Uneven or rapid pulse (palpitations)
• Weight gain (due to swelling)
• Increased need to urinate
• Neck veins that stand out
• Nausea and vomiting
• Difficulty sleeping
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty concentrating, decreased alertness

The symptoms of heart failure differ from person to person. They may also vary in the same person, depending on:

• How long they have had heart failure – symptoms tend to become more severe as the disease progresses
• What they are doing – symptoms are often worse during exercise
• The time of day or night – coughing/wheezing is often worse at night, when the person is lying down
• The climate – heat and humidity may make symptoms worse
• Other illnesses – symptoms can be aggravated by other conditions such as flu or asthma
• Fluid intake – drinking too much can make fluid retention worse
  
  

Additional information